Running in cold weather is a big deal. It shows determination and passion for something really healthy and productive so it shouldn’t be taken easily. Going out for a run in October or December is really different than going jogging on a summer day. There are a lot of factors you should take into consideration to get 100% of your cold weather run. We promise to tackle the issue of running in cold weather in several posts but for the time being we’ll talk about the accessories you’ll want to have when heading out in the cold.

If you didn’t read them, we already posted a few articles on cold-weather running. You can check them out here:

Cold-weather running, what’s the difference?

When talking about how cold-weather running is difference than jogging in hot or warm weather, there are several aspects we should look at.

The biggest change is the temperature, of course. You’ll have to change your running gear entirely if you want to get good results and enjoy your run. No more running shorts and t-shirts, you have to be prepared for what’s coming. Gear-wise you’ll need to dress in layers and to look for clothing that wicks away moisture (for the inner layer) and keeps away the cold and wind (for the outer layer).

You’ll face more challenges when going out for a run in colder months. A cold rain is way different than a cool summer rain and it can pose a health risk if you don’t take care of yourself. Wet clothes are heavier and may make it harder to run.

Long story short, you’ll have to apply the following principles when running in cold weather:

Keep the heat in and the cold out.

Do your research and avoid running in storms or heavy rain.

Be aware of the environment.

Don’t stress yourself if you don’t get the same results. Running in colder weather is more demanding than doing it on warm weather.

6 Accessories You Need For Running in Cold Weather

We talked about running clothing in past articles (we’ve also mentioned them at the beginning of this article) so we won’t say another word about them. But we are going to help you find the best accessories you’ll want to take with you when running in cold weather.

Lip repair

When going out for a run in cold weather the wind is one of your biggest enemies. You can shield your body from cold and stronger wind but your face isn’t that lucky. Let’s say your cheeks can withstand the cold but your lips are more sensible. Use some lip repair ointment before heading out or repair the damage done when you come back.

Professional underwear

We’re adding this as an accessory because you can choose to use them or not. When going out running in really cold weather, you should choose some professional underwear made just for runners. They have thermal and wind blocking properties.

Hand warmers

When the weather is really cold, you can put some hot hands hand warmers in your gloves and make the cold a little bit more bearable. Don’t forget that when the cold comes, your feet and hands are the first to feel it since your brain lowers the blood flow to those areas.

Professional sunglasses

It’s still Autumn now but the snow will be here soon enough. You’ll have to get better shoes if you want to run in that weather and you’ll also want to buy some professional sunglasses. Snow reflects almost all of the UV rays which are damaging to the eyes. Wearing some lightweight but professional sunglasses will help you stay safe.

Reflective gear

It can be something you wear or an accessory. It really doesn’t matter what part of your running gear is reflective but you must have it. During the colder months we have less light and chances are that you’ll run in low light conditions. Having some reflective gear will help others spot you early.

A fitness belt

Belts are not used just in gym but also in outdoor sports. When you’re running, you don’t need any extra weight or for items in your pockets to hit you in the hip. If you add some rain to the mix, your clothing will weigh even more.

The solution is storing your valuables inside a lightweight but safe fitness belt. Be sure you have room for your smartphone, your keys, money and other small stuff you’ll want to take with you.